Classroom Without Walls: Families: 11th grade: El Cocuy

El Cocuy

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Eleventh graders are going to head to the mountains on an experience that is going to allow them to see some of the fast melting snow in Colombia before there is none to see. It is a journey they have been preparing for throughout the CWW program. A journey that is perfect for them as a final challenge before finishing their time at CNG and heading out to adventures further afield. El Cocuy offers the chance to study unique high mountain ecosystems, such as páramos and glaciers. It allows us to study the impact of climate change on the glaciers, and the importance of the conservation of the Paramos as water sources. El Cocuy offers the chance to study impressive geological formations, such as snow-capped peaks, glacial lagoons, and deep valleys. We would gain the experience of learning about Andean orogeny and glacial processes. El Cocuy is a sacred territory for the U'wa people, a culture with a deep spiritual connection to nature. This journey opens the opportunity to learn about their worldview, their struggle to defend their territory and their ancestral knowledge. The possibility to see first hand the melting of the glaciers, is an experience that marks the students, and generates awareness about the impact of climate change. 

Discover all the details about this program:

FLIER (English version)

CIRCULAR (Spanish version)

Learn more about Zambo, the company we collaborate with for this CWW program.

Introductory Video

Webpage

Scope and Sequence

• The connections to class include study of the geological formation of the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, including Andean orogenesis and glaciation. Analysis of the different thermal floors and their influence on biodiversity and ecosystems. Cartography and orientation: mapmaking of the region, use of GPS and compasses during the visit. Study of hydrography: river basins, river springs, glacial lagoons. Research on the history of exploration and mountaineering in the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy. Study of the history of the U'wa indigenous peoples, their relationship with the territory, and their worldview. Analysis of the impact of tourism in the region and the importance of sustainable tourism. Research on the culture and traditions of the U'wa people, including their language, beliefs, and ancestral practices. Study of the relationship between the U'wa and El Cocuy National Natural Park, and conflicts related to land use. Study of high mountain ecosystems: páramos, glaciers, high Andean forests. Analysis of the region's biodiversity, including endemic and endangered species. Study of the impact of climate change on glaciers and high mountain ecosystems. Monitoring of water and air quality during the visit. Study of the types of rocks and geological formations present in the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy. Analysis of erosion and weathering processes in the high mountains. Study of geological risks: avalanches, landslides, etc. Study of protected areas and the importance of conserving high mountain ecosystems. Analysis of the region's environmental problems: mass tourism, pollution, etc. Calculation of distances, altitudes, and slopes during hikes. Measurement of glacier melting speed. Calculation of the impact of tourism in the region: number of visitors, resource consumption, etc. Collection and analysis of data on biodiversity, climate, and tourism in the region. Preparation of graphs and tables to represent the data. Interpretation of statistical data on environmental impact.
• While the learner profile aspect of this program is focused on deep thinking, in reality by eleventh grade all of the aspects of the learner profile are encompassed within the experience. However, the eleventh grade journey is very much a journey within yourself as students challenge themselves physically but also mentally and emotionally as they climb up towards the snow.
• All CNG core values will be needed throughout this journey (caring, respect, responsibility and integrity). Success skills will be focused on communication and collaboration. There will be ample opportunities to hone both of these skills throughout the week.
• Outdoor skills will be focused on the experience of learning about adaptation to high altitude and extreme cold conditions; orientation skills, survival skills, and teamwork skills in high mountain conditions. Students will be camping on this journey, with a final celebratory night in a hotel in Paipa.